What's Happening?
Staunton has appointed Anna Leavitt, former executive director of the Community Action Partnership of Staunton, Augusta, and Waynesboro (CAPSAW), as the city's new Economic Mobility and Opportunity Special
Assistant. This role is designed to tackle the economic disconnect in Staunton, where 42% of households are 'cost-burdened' by housing, and local employers face challenges in filling job vacancies. Leavitt will work to coordinate city departments and external agencies to help businesses fill vacancies and assist individuals in finding living wage jobs. Her efforts will also focus on making Staunton more affordable for its workforce and improving regional transit connections. The position is funded by a competitive private grant managed by the International City/County Management Association, with financial backing from the Gates Foundation. This funding ensures that city taxpayers are not responsible for Leavitt's salary.
Why It's Important?
The appointment of Anna Leavitt is significant as it addresses critical economic issues in Staunton, such as housing affordability and workforce shortages. By focusing on these areas, the city aims to enhance the financial stability of its residents and improve the local economy. The initiative is particularly important as it seeks to create a more integrated approach to economic development by linking housing, workforce development, education, and transportation. This holistic strategy could serve as a model for other communities facing similar challenges. The use of external funding for this position also highlights the potential for public-private partnerships to drive local economic improvements without burdening taxpayers.
What's Next?
Leavitt's immediate focus will be on coordinating efforts between city departments and external partners to address the identified economic challenges. This includes developing strategies to improve job accessibility and affordability of housing. The city will likely monitor the impact of these initiatives closely to assess their effectiveness and make necessary adjustments. Additionally, the search for a new executive director for CAPSAW is ongoing, with applications being accepted until the end of January. The outcome of this search will be crucial for maintaining the momentum of community support services in the region.
